The Ethics of Consent in a Shifting Genomic Ecosystem

Annu Rev Biomed Data Sci. 2021 Jul 20:4:145-164. doi: 10.1146/annurev-biodatasci-030221-125715.

Abstract

The collection and use of human genetic data raise important ethical questions about how to balance individual autonomy and privacy with the potential for public good. The proliferation of local, national, and international efforts to collect genetic data and create linkages to support large-scale initiatives in precision medicine and the learning health system creates new demands for broad data sharing that involve managing competing interests and careful consideration of what constitutes appropriate ethical trade-offs. This review describes these emerging ethical issues with a focus on approaches to consent and issues related to justice in the shifting genomic research ecosystem.

Keywords: consent; data sharing; ethics; genetics; human subjects protections; learning health system.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Ecosystem*
  • Genomics
  • Humans
  • Informed Consent
  • Privacy*
  • Social Justice